Key appointments for Tourism New Zealand announced

Tourism New Zealand has today announced two new leadership appointments with the key positions of General Manager Australia and General Manager Asia, now filled.

Tony Saunders, Tourism New Zealand's existing Regional Marketing Communications Manager, Australia has been appointed to the role of General Manager Australia.

David Craig has been appointed General Manager Asia, the role he is currently acting in.

Tourism New Zealand's Director of Trade, PR and Major Events Justin Watson says the organisation is committed to promoting its best people, especially into key leadership roles.

"Both Tony and David are already with Tourism New Zealand and their proven success was a key consideration in their appointments.

"Tony has more than 14 years' experience as a marketer and joined Tourism New Zealand as Regional Marketing Communications Manager for Australia in January 2011.

"He will be a familiar figure to many in the industry having led the marketing communications development for a number of highly successful partner campaigns run in what is our largest source market.

Tony has also managed global brands for Campbell-Arnotts based in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK, as well as Yum Restaurants in Australia.

"Tony's knowledge of and experience in Australia, existing relationships with trade partners on both sides of the Tasman, and proven success in working alongside the RTOs make him the perfect person for this role.

"David Craig has been with Tourism New Zealand since July 2013, initially contracted to develop our entry strategy for the LATAM market.

"He brings more than 20 years' international experience to the organisation and has a successful track record of managing extensive teams, significant investment and joint ventures while building consumer brands across New Zealand, the UK, Europe, Asia and Latin America," says Justin.

David's previous roles include GM Sales and Marketing for the New Zealand Racing Board, GM Consumer Marketing for Telecom New Zealand and Managing Director of Asia Venture Markets for Diageo (the world's leading premium drinks' business with a portfolio of brands including Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker and Guinness).

It was in this role that David oversaw activity in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.

"David brings a wealth of valuable experience in working across Asia, along with a first-hand understanding of New Zealand," says Justin.

Tony and David join GM Western Markets Gregg Anderson to lead Tourism New Zealand's international-based staff across 12 offices.

Justin adds: "With the two new General Managers now in place, we will be moving the reporting line for Indonesia to the Regional Manager South and South East Asia (Mischa Mannix-Opie) under the direction of David Craig.

"Now that the Jakarta office is established and staff appointed, the delivery of in-market activity is well aligned to activity delivered across the rest of Asia."